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Three Tips for a Successful Debate or Presentation

JACKSONVILLE, FL - JANUARY 26: Audience members listen to the Republican presidential candidates debate at the University North Florida on January 26, 2012 in Jacksonville, Florida. The debate is the last one before the Florida primaries January 31st. (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)

There is much anticipation surrounding this election season’s first presidential debate. It’s each candidate’s opportunity to present their ideas to a wide audience and persuade viewers of their positions. Similarly in a business presentation, a presenter must win over the audience and clearly communicate his point of view in a way that causes the audience to take action.

Here are a few tips to make a debate or presentation a successful event:

1. Know your subject. To be convincing as an authority on your subject and to be able to speak astutely, you should have an in-depth understanding of the topic and think on your feet. In a debate questions may come from the mediator or opponent, and in a business presentation a skeptical audience could confront you with a rigorous Q&A session. Knowing “your stuff” will make you prepared for anything that comes at you. But, knowing your arguments is just the half of it. You must also be able to combat the opposition with sound arguments. To be able to do that, it’s important that you understand the other side’s position. Your audience’s opinions may also differ from yours, so you are not only countering your competition’s point of view, you are also trying to convince the audience that your arguments are stronger and sounder.

2. Mind your actions. At any speaking event or meeting, all eyes are on you. You are not only being judged on what you say but also on your demeanor. Be mindful of your composure, avoid slouching or leaning. Pay attention to non-verbal reactions to your opponent’s statement ‒ an eye roll or pursed lips could come across as rude or antagonistic. And be aware that even when you are not speaking, you are still being watched!

3. Hold your composure. The goal of your speech or presentation is to give the audience the opportunity to hear your thoughts, comprehend your message, and act upon them. In a highly stressful, heated setting, it is easy to get caught up in the emotion of the moment. But raising your voice or getting upset will not benefit your cause. Instead, keep collected even if your opponent or audience is trying to draw you into a shouting match. You will earn more respect for being calm and able to express your thoughts in a composed manner.

One of the things that make the presidential debates unique in comparison to most presentations is the lack of visual aids ‒ don’t try to mimic this exclusion. Visual aids complement what you are saying to help convey your message. And, most importantly, they are processed much faster than words and are easier to remember.

With any debate or presentation, keep in mind that your goal is to persuade your audience that you, or your company and its products and services, are the right choice. Mastering your subject to cogently formulate your thoughts and arguments will help you communicate your value statements and position in contrast to the competition. When the audience understands your message, they are more likely to accept and retain your position, leading them to take action. To convincingly establish your authority and expertise on the subject, stay mindful of your composure and actions.

Best of luck to tonight’s debaters and keep these tips handy for your next presentation!

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I’ve always found it useful to go into a debate or presentation crystal clear on what points I want to make. Knowing your subject, minding your actions, and watching your composure are important to keep you from looking bad. Adding the right points to connect with your audience on top of those is what’s needed to win.